Bachelor of Arts [B.A] [Commercial Music] From University of South Carolina - Upstate

The commercial music program includes courses in commercial music, jazz studies, music theory, music history, piano/keyboard, choir, guitar performance, composition, music entrepreneurship, singing performance, music technology and applied lessons.

The mission of the Bachelor of Arts in commercial music at USC Upstate is to provide an experiential learning environment that prepares the student for careers in performing, private instruction, music directing, career management, publishing, booking or working with technology in contemporary and diverse professional music settings.

With the ever-growing array of opportunities available in performance, education, recording, publishing, and technology, the commercial music field demands skills that incorporate knowledge of practical music theory, ear training, contemporary music repertoire, pedagogy, composition, arranging, improvisation, technology, history, and music business. The curriculum of the Bachelor of Arts in commercial music at USC Upstate is structured to provide the student a thorough understanding of these skills.

A liberal arts philosophy in this field separates USC Upstate from other institutions by requiring involvement in both contemporary and traditional music styles combined with a wide range of academic study. This philosophy provides the student with a well-rounded understanding for the professional work of music and its diverse opportunities.